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Project Overview
This refurbishment project involved the transformation of a traditional bungalow located in a popular village on the Lincolnshire coast. The brief was clear: improve energy efficiency, modernise the external appearance, and retain a look that sat comfortably within a coastal setting. The solution combined external insulation, render, and European Larch timber cladding supplied and machined by Bennetts Timber, creating a contemporary yet characterful finish.
Why Timber Cladding?
The homeowners were drawn to timber as an external cladding material for both practical and aesthetic reasons. Timber offered a low-cost solution that was easy to install, while also being perfectly in keeping with their vision for a seaside holiday home.
“It was low-cost and easy to install, and the timber cladding was very in-keeping with the look we wanted for our seaside holiday home.”
Timber vs Traditional Materials
As an older bungalow, improving thermal performance was a key priority. External insulation was added as part of the refurbishment, and the final design used a combination of render and timber cladding.
The cladding was strategically positioned around the patio area to introduce warmth and character, while also complementing the natural stone patio.
“We used a mixture of render and cladding, with the cladding around the patio to add more character and compliment the natural stone of the patio.”
Timber was also chosen for its low carbon credentials and minimal maintenance requirements. To achieve the desired finish, the cladding was treated with Gori wood preservative, accelerating the natural silvering process and delivering the exact coastal aesthetic the homeowners were aiming for.
Why European Larch?
When it came to selecting the timber species, the clients sought advice from Bennetts Timber and were presented with multiple options.
“We sought advice from Bennetts Timber and chose European Larch as it is durable, within our budget, and has the traditional appearance we wanted.”
European Larch provided the ideal balance of durability, natural character, and value for money, making it particularly well suited to a coastal environment. Bennetts Timber supported the decision-making process by visiting the site and supplying samples of different species for comparison.
Profile Selection: BEN SN2
With several cladding profiles available, design detail was an important part of achieving the final look. Bennetts supplied samples of each option, allowing the homeowners to make an informed choice.
“We chose the profile BEN SN2 secret nail with a shadow gap as it created the look we wanted to achieve for a coastal property.”
The BEN SN2 secret‑fix profile, with its clean shadow gap detail, delivered a sharp, contemporary appearance while keeping fixings hidden for a sleek finish.
Installation & Lead Time
The project ran smoothly from order to completion. The cladding was delivered within Bennetts’ two-week specified lead time, and installation was quicker than expected using pre-treated battens for the framework to attach the cladding.
“It took about a day for the builders to install the cladding and accessories. They thought it was very straightforward!”
Overall Experience with Bennetts Timber
The homeowners were extremely pleased with both the product and the service provided.
“We were very satisfied with the service and expertise we got from Bennetts. They were able to advise on the raw material as well as the profile we chose.”
With fast, efficient delivery, clear communication, and expert guidance throughout, the clients felt they received real value for money — and were delighted with the finished result.
Products Used
